Vinicius Junior rescues Brazil in 1-1 draw with Morocco at MetLife Stadium
Saibari put Morocco ahead and Vinicius Junior equalised for Ancelotti's Brazil, who dropped points at the 2026 World Cup.
Brazil and Morocco drew 1-1 in an enticing Group C clash at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, the colossus of the New York area that will be one of the marquee venues for the 2026 World Cup. Holding 80,663 spectators, it is one of the largest grounds at this 48-team World Cup staged by the United States, Mexico and Canada, and it produced a rapturous atmosphere.
Morocco caused a stir by going ahead. In the 21st minute, Ismael Saibari beat Alisson after an assist from Brahim Diaz, rewarding the North Africans' boldness. The goal forced the Selecao to step up the pace.
The response bore their star's signature. In the 32nd, Vinicius Junior equalised from a Bruno Guimaraes pass, sparking joy among the Brazilian masses. Carlo Ancelotti's side, set up in a 4-2-3-1 with Marquinhos at the back and Raphinha and Vinicius himself up front, dominated possession but could not find a winner. The match produced two Brazilian yellows, for Casemiro (37') and Roger Ibañez (43').
Morocco, led by Mohamed Ouahbi also in a 4-2-3-1 and with Achraf Hakimi a dagger down the flank and Bono between the posts, showed that their golden generation means business and went toe-to-toe with the South American giant.
The split leaves both nations on one point in Group C, a result that feels meagre for a Brazil tipped as contenders and a reward for a Morocco confirming its rise and dreaming of another deep run at the 2026 World Cup.